Team set-up to investigate 'unusual' infections at Children's Hospital
An incident management team has been set-up to look into a "very small number of unusual infections" detected in patients at Aberdeen's Children's hospital - and some operations are delayed or moved:
NHS Grampian have put together an Incident Management Team (IMT) to look at whether a "very small" number of infections described as "unusual" discovered in patients at Aberdeen's Children's Hospital are linked to anything environmentally.
The health board say some measures have been introduced to minimise risk as much as possible.
These include moving some operations to the main hospital building, or delaying others.
Those visiting will also be asked to use an alcohol based hand rub after washing their hands with soap and water.
A statement from NHS Grampian said:
"A very small number of unusual infections have been detected in patients treated at RACH. Due to the small number of patients involved, and the unusual nature of the infections, we cannot confirm any details as to do so would risk patient identification. However, we can say that these infections are not linked to COVID-19 or any of its variants.
"An Incident Management Team (IMT) has been set up to consider whether or not there is any environmental link to the infections. While investigations take place, some additional precautions have been put in place in the hospital. These are aimed at minimising risk as much as possible. It must be stressed that, with these measures in place, the risk to patients, their families, and staff is low. The main difference people coming to the hospital will notice is that they will now be asked to use alcohol-based hand rub following handwashing with water and soap.
"There will be some minor alterations to the current approach to managing and undertaking theatre lists. Some procedures will be undertaken temporarily in the ARI theatre suites. Some planned procedures will be postponed, and conversations are being had directly with patients and their families regarding this.
"Further environmental samples are being taken as part of the investigation. It can take some weeks for results to be determined following sampling, so it is expected that these, highly precautionary, measures will be in place for some time. We apologise for any delay or inconvenience patients and their families may experience as a result of these temporary measures.
"We would stress again that the overall risk from these infections to the general population is low. RACH remains open to treat and admit patients. In the event of an emergency, you should still bring your child to the Emergency Department. Patients and families should attend scheduled appointments unless advised otherwise. Anyone with particular questions about their child’s care should speak directly to their clinical team."